New DelhI: Toyota has finally confirmed what off-road enthusiasts have been waiting to hear: a compact, more affordable Land Cruiser is coming to global markets. The new model, officially called the Land Cruiser FJ, will launch first in Japan by mid-2026 before making its way to other markets. Toyota is positioning it as the smallest and most accessible member of the Land Cruiser family, sitting below the LC 250 Series.
From the first look, it’s clear this is not a soft urban SUV. The Land Cruiser FJ retains the bold boxy stance that off-road purists love, combined with rugged design elements such as a tailgate-mounted spare wheel, segmented bumpers and upright proportions, very similar to the classic Land Cruiser DNA. It feels like Toyota wants the badge to go back to its roots, with a focus on durability and real-world capability rather than luxury.
Toyota unveils its most compact Land Cruiser yet, the FJ, with rugged 4×4 capability.
Dimensions and design: A compact Land Cruiser with real presence
Even though it is the smallest Land Cruiser yet, the FJ is not tiny by any means. It measures 4,575 mm in length, 1,855 mm in width and 1,960 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,580 mm. This makes it 270 mm shorter in wheelbase than the LC 250, which should make it more nimble on narrow trails and mountainous roads. The tall stance and chunky tyres suggest a focus on ground clearance and approach angles.
The styling is unapologetically retro-modern. Buyers will be able to choose between rectangular LED headlamps with C-shaped DRLs or classic round lamps as part of the brand’s customisation kits. The vertically stacked tail lamps and the old-school spare wheel at the rear further add to that traditional 4×4 charm.
Engine and performance
Under the hood, Toyota has confirmed a 2.7-litre 2TR-FE petrol engine producing 161 bhp and 246 Nm of torque. This motor is paired with a 6-speed Super ECT automatic gearbox and a part-time four-wheel drive system. While these figures may not sound explosive, Toyota’s focus here appears to be long-term reliability rather than outright speed. Expect real-world off-road performance to be the highlight, not highway drag figures.
- Engine: 2.7-litre, 4-cylinder petrol
- Power: 161 bhp
- Torque: 246 Nm
- Gearbox: 6-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Part-time 4WD
Top speed figures are yet to be announced, but based on the powertrain, estimates could be around 160 kmph. Toyota has not yet revealed fuel economy numbers, but given the older engine architecture, it may not be the most efficient. Enthusiasts, however, will likely appreciate its mechanical simplicity.
New Land Cruiser FJ brings retro SUV charm in a smaller, more affordable package
Interiors: Function over flash
Step inside, and you’ll notice Toyota is focusing on utility, not luxury. There is a large central infotainment screen and a digital instrument cluster, but there are also physical buttons and rotary controls, making it easier to use in dusty or wet off-road conditions. The layout is similar to the larger LC 250, which means familiarity for existing owners.
- Purposeful dashboard layout
- Physical switches for off-road controls
- Digital instrument panel
- Likely 5-seat configuration (yet to be confirmed)
Market positioning and launch timeline
Toyota will officially unveil the Land Cruiser FJ at the Japan Mobility Show 2025, starting 30 October. Sales in Japan are expected to begin in mid-2026, followed by global launches. Prices are yet to be announced, but being the entry model, it will be the most affordable Land Cruiser ever. If it enters India, industry experts expect pricing to be upwards of ₹40 lakh, depending on import duties.
The brand says the new model is focused on freedom, joy and practical off-road use, while sticking to core Land Cruiser values such as reliability and durability. With SUV buyers across markets looking for rugged lifestyle vehicles, Toyota’s move seems timed perfectly.